P’Nut has tested negative for rabies. The Chemung County Health Department, located in New York’s Southern Tier, confirmed the test results during a press briefing on Tuesday, according to The New York Times.
The gray squirrel, also referred to as Peanut, was confiscated from Mark and Daniela Longo’s property in Pine City on October 30, alongside a raccoon named Fred. Officials acted on reports that the couple was housing wild animals without the required permits. During the removal, P’Nut allegedly bit a wildlife biologist, prompting the need for rabies testing, which is only possible by examining brain tissue after euthanasia.
The seizure and subsequent euthanasia of P’Nut quickly became a flashpoint for critics of government interference. On social media, the squirrel’s fate ignited outrage, fueled by high-profile figures like Elon Musk and Senator JD Vance, who transformed P’Nut into a symbol of overreach. Memes and speeches elevated the small animal into an unlikely cultural icon.
During Tuesday’s press conference, Chemung County Executive Chris Moss defended the decisions made by officials, emphasizing the importance of public safety. “I understand people are emotional about this situation,” Moss said, “but protecting public health must remain our priority.” Moss also addressed escalating threats against local agencies and state departments involved in the case. Bomb threats and other menacing communications were reported following the two animals’ deaths.
The Longos, who described P’Nut as a cherished companion they had cared for since rescuing him as a baby seven years ago, voiced anger over the situation. Mark Longo expressed particular frustration upon learning that plans for euthanasia had been discussed before any incident involving a bite.
“This is beyond infuriating,” Longo said in an interview. “It’s disgraceful to see the blame-shifting, when everyone involved bears responsibility.”
Authorities countered the Longos’ claims, stating that they had previously warned the couple about the legal restrictions on keeping wildlife. A union representing the involved agencies accused Mr. Longo of misleading officials earlier this year by claiming the squirrel had been released into the wild.
Longo firmly denied this, explaining that an earlier attempt to return P’Nut to nature had failed, leaving the squirrel partially tailless. “Releasing him wasn’t an option,” Longo said. “Why would I abandon a companion I’ve had for seven years? He wouldn’t have survived even an hour.”
The investigation into the Longos began months before, after licensed wildlife rehabilitators reported concerns about their keeping of unauthorized animals. The couple, who run P’Nuts Freedom Farm Animal Sanctuary, also cares for rescue horses, alpacas, and other animals. Their social media activity highlighting their sanctuary reportedly contributed to the court order authorizing the search of their property.
During the briefing, Chemung County Public Health Director Peter Buzzetti III defended the timeline and actions taken by authorities. He explained that while domestic animals suspected of rabies are often observed before euthanasia, this policy does not extend to wildlife. “Rabies testing for wildlife must be conducted immediately to ensure public safety,” Buzzetti stated.
Despite receiving support from political figures and activists, Mark Longo insisted that his frustration with the incident is personal rather than partisan. “I don’t follow politics, and I’ve never voted,” he said, adding that the tragedy has left him determined to pursue justice for P’Nut and Fred through legal action.
Elon Musk, who had previously shared memes referencing P’Nut as a heroic figure, continued to comment cryptically on social media. “The prophecy has been fulfilled,” Musk posted, reigniting online conversations about the case.
